Team India middle order batter Shreyas Iyer was thrilled to bits after he finally made a comeback to the national team's playing XI after a lengthy battle with injury. The Mumbai batter was part of the Men in Blue's playing XI for the crunch Asia Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan. Upon making a comeback, Iyer reflected on his recovery process and admitted to being anxious the previous night before the high-voltage contest.
"I never imagined I'll be playing Asia Cup. The recovery was slow and steady. I passed the fitness test one week before selection, and I was really happy with that. I was nervous last night, couldn't sleep," Iyer told host broadcasters just before the match between India and Pakistan got underway in Pallekele.
Before the Asia Cup, Iyer last played an ODI in January earlier in the year. Since then, the stylish right-hander has been away from professional cricket with a back injury for which he had to undergo surgery. Iyer was also shed light on the prospect of playing against Pakistan, which also happens to be the No.1 ranked ODI side.
"I am super excited to play this match against Pakistan. It's a phenomenal feeling to be honest as they are the number 1 team at the moment. Delighted to be playing against these (Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah) bowlers, the plan is just to watch the ball and play according to the situation," Iyer said.
The upcoming three months are going to be extremely crucial not just for Iyer but for India as there are two big-ticket tournaments lined up, including the ongoing Asia Cup. With so much on the line, Iyer spoke about the mood in the dressing room.
We are privileged to be a part of this team and journey with Rahul sir (Dravid) as the coach and under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. The spirits are high in the dressing room and we are looking forward to this game.
Iyer looked extremely fluent during his first outing after a lengthy lay-off before a bouncer from Haris Rauf ended the right-handed batter's vigil at the crease. The Indian batter scored 14 runs off nine balls with the help of two fours.
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